SHIMLA-26^th June, 2025Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla emphasized that education was not merely about scoring high marks in examinations but about shaping one's life, contributing to positive change in society and playing a vital role in nation-building.

He was addressing a gathering as a Chief Guest at 'Shimla ke Medhavi' programme organized by a daily vernacular group at Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, today. Over 450 meritorious students from more than 40 schools across Shimla district were honoured on the occasion.

Speaking about the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Governor said that AI is driven by the data provided to it, and hence, it must be used responsibly. He advised students to limit distractions from platforms like YouTube and instead focus on purposeful learning. He added that India was progressing rapidly in the field of AI and technology, and there was no dearth of employment opportunities in this domain. Today, many people working in senior government positions were showing interest in transitioning to careers in the IT sector, he stated.

"Students are the architects of tomorrow. Their approach to the present will determine the shape of the future," the Governor remarked. He stressed that education should not only aim at employment but also empower individuals and help build a culturally flourishing and strong India. He highlighted that the National Education Policy has been designed keeping this broader vision in mind and offers numerous new opportunities for the youth.

Referring to India’s rich legacy in science, he reminded of India’s contribution to the decimal system and spoke of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam as an ideal role model. "Whatever profession one may choose, the spirit of education must remain constant," he said, adding that a true teacher was one who continues to learn and shares that learning with others. He exhorted students to use their time wisely, remain disciplined, and contribute actively towards building a better Himachal Pradesh.

The governor also expressed gratitude to the university for supporting his ongoing campaign against drug abuse and lauded the initiative to include a pledge against drugs in student admission forms. He praised the organizers for celebrating academic excellence, saying that such recognition not only honours merit but also inspires young talent to pursue excellence.

On the occasion, the Governor also launched the 'Kalam of Himachal' initiative, introduced by Vidyapeeth Institute.

Welcoming the Governor, Vice Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University, Prof. Mahavir Singh, said that energy, cyber security and data science were priority areas for the University. He announced that three new centres focusing on these areas would soon be established. He acknowledged that the AI has introduced new challenges in the education sector that need to be addressed and called on students to embrace challenges rather than succumb to pressure.

Director Vidyapeeth Institute Ravinder Awasthi welcomed the Governor and Director Vidyapeeth Ramesh Sharma proposed the vote of thanks.

Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma, parents, teachers, university faculty and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.